Intern Perspectives: Breaking Down the Manosphere
Above illustrations by Paige Cuffe
The online world of misogynistic and anti-feminist content, known as the ‘Manosphere’, has well and truly entered the public consciousness in recent years.
From the rise of so-called “manfluencers” to the psychology behind their appeal, the influence of these spaces is being dissected in books, research papers, investigative journalism, and even Netflix dramas. At the Trust, we’ve explored its impact on education through our Sexism at School educator survey, and hosted a compelling webinar, Malevolent Influence, featuring Dr Stephanie Wescott and Anna Krien.
It’s no surprise then, that the Manosphere has also captured the curiosity of our interns and volunteers. Emerald Young and Emily Lewis, two recent VWT interns, each tackled the topic from two distinct but complimentary angles; a theoretical examination of sexism in Australian schools, and a practical resource for parents and carers to help address it.
Their work adds to the growing knowledge on this pressing and ever-evolving issue.
The Mano-festation of Misogyny: A snapshot of sexism in Victorian Primary Schools
Research report
Emerald Young, a Psychology and Gender Studies student from the University of Melbourne, explored how the manosphere may be shaping sexist attitudes in primary schools. Her report, The Mano-festation of Misogyny: A Snapshot of Sexism in Victorian Primary Schools, links online misogynistic groups with rising sexism among Victorian primary school students.
Combining literature review with her own interviews with educators and psychologists, Emerald paints a clear picture of how this online-fuelled sexism is affecting teachers and students, and what can be done. Her timely report highlights a sector in crisis and the urgent need for action.
Into the Manosphere
Parent and carer resource
Emily Lewis, a recent Master of Social Policy graduate from the University of Melbourne, created Into the Manosphere to bridge the gap between theory and practical support for parents and carers of young boys.
The resource explains what the manosphere is, how to spot its influence, and what to do if a child is already engaging with it. Drawing on academic research and reviewed by experts in technology, education, radicalisation and youth mental health, it’s a practical guide for busy parents and carers, teachers and trusted adults—covering key terms, algorithms, manfluencer tactics, and where to turn for help.
Understanding the Manosphere
Short guide
Inspired by the work of Emerald and Emily, VWT have produced Understanding the Manosphere; a two-page guide that covers the bare essentials of what the manosphere is and how to address it.
This guide is designed to be read on the fly; over a quick breakfast standing at the kitchen bench, between school drop off and starting work, or waiting in the car during a music lesson or sport practice.
Read Next
Watch | Malevolent Influence: Schools and the Shadow of Andrew Tate
BlogCatch up on our expert discussion on the rise of sexism and misogyny in Australian schools, featuring Anna Krien and Dr Stephanie Wescott.
Read more
Sexism at School: Educator Survey Results
BlogResults from our survey of educators show that sexism and gender-based abuse is alive and well in today’s classrooms. Teachers provide their take the rise of the manosphere and what it means for educational outcomes.
Read more
‘Miss, what do you think of Andrew Tate?’: The problem of widespread misogyny and sexism in Australian classrooms
BlogFeminist researcher Dr Stephanie Wescott explains how female teachers navigate the influence of figures like Andrew Tate on their students, revealing the breaking point for some educators.
Read more